2013 Mini Classic is serious fun for junior cyclists

Mini Classic road race, men’s 17 – 18 lead group in the valley north of Silt, CO

[updated 5/27/2013]

Hot. No shade. Never flat. Windy. Hard. That describes Sunday’s 2013 Colorado Mini Classic road race circuit, whether it was the 14 mile loop for the younger cyclists or the 18 mile loop for the 17 – 18 and U23 categories.

The Mini Classic is a time to make friends, trade tips, and cheer for your teammates in different age groups.

But it’s also serious business. Even for 10 – 12 year-olds. Arriving at the road race on Sunday with the phrase “be at the front after the neutral start” planted in their heads by coaches, parents, or previous racing experience, these kids shot into the open spaces remaining in the first row on the start line after the official called up the top five placed riders from yesterday’s individual time trial.

The men’s 15 – 16 age group is the largest field at the event with 32 riders. This group contested a two hour road race over 42 miles. The video below highlights scenes from one of the longer climbs in the 14 mile circuit and the east-west rolling roads. It concludes with post-race interviews with winner Gage Hecht (Specialized) who ended the day first in the omnium classification, and third and fourth overall Sam Rosenberg and Cameron Beard of the Hutch’s team from Oregon.

Post Road Race Video

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Gallery

Ian McPherson’s lucky bike tail gets rolled out

Silt, Colorado wagon wheel

Kirsten Williams and Savannah Adams warming up

Mike explains rules and what to expect

Savannah Adams posts up for a happy 3rd in the 17-18 road race, Erin Quinn 4th

Nolan Herzog wins men’s 13-14 road race

Post-race tree climbing

Black Sheep team BBQ

Bike throw skills on display in 13 – 14 group

Mini Classic road race, men’s 17 – 18 lead group in the valley north of Silt, CO